Since high blood pressure and high levels of LDL cholesterol are linked to higher risks of heart disease and stroke, adding moderate amounts of guava to your diet could lead to valuable benefits.

A 12-week study of 120 people found that eating ripe guava before meals caused an overall decrease in blood pressure by 8–9 points, a reduction in total cholesterol by 9.9% and an increase in "good" HDL cholesterol by 8% (8).

Many women experience dysmenorrhea — painful symptoms of menstruation such as stomach cramps.

However, there is some evidence that guava extract can actually reduce the pain intensity of menstrual cramps.

A study involving 197 women who experienced painful symptoms found that taking 6 mg of guava leaf extract daily resulted in reduced pain intensity. It appeared to be even more powerful than some painkillers (11).

Guava leaf extract is thought to have a "spasmolytic" effect on the uterus, meaning it can relieve spasms of smooth muscle, also known as cramps (12).

The wide range of vitamins and antioxidants packed into a guava may do wonders for your skin. Their high levels of antioxidants may help protect the skin from damage. This can slow down its aging process, helping prevent wrinkles (23).

What's more, guava extract may even help treat acne.

One test-tube study found that guava leaf extract was effective at killing acne-causing bacteria in the skin. This is likely due to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of guava extract (24).

More studies are needed to confirm the role of guavas and guava extract in maintaining healthy skin.

Bottom Line: The antioxidants and vitamins in guavas can help slow down the aging of skin, while guava extract may help treat acne.